After the implementation of the new regulations for tariff order for the broadcast industry, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has started the consultation process on regulations that will focus on norms for submitting information to the regulator on interconnection agreements by broadcasters, MSOs and DTH companies.

These are technical and commercial agreements, signed between broadcasters and service providers to provide broadcasting services to subscribers.

The telecom and broadcast regulator released the draft Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Register of Interconnection Agreements Regulations, 2019 on Monday.

“The objective of this draft regulation is to ensure that all the interconnection agreements are filed by every broadcaster, and the distributor of television channels (with average active subscriber base of its entire distribution network equal to or more than two lakh),” said in a statement.

Simplifying process

The interconnection regulations will set the framework and procedures of a reporting system, so that service providers can report information regarding their interconnection agreements to TRAI.

“It would enable the Authority to maintain register of interconnect as per provisions of TRAI Act. The existing regulation mandates broadcasters of pay TV channels, DTH operators, HITS operators and IPTV operators to annually report to the Authorityinformation relating to the interconnection agreements,” the statement added.

The consultation process has been kick-started to simplify the process of reporting, avoid duplication of reports ,and formulate views on accessibility of register’s information, it added.

In the draft regulations, TRAI has also proposed levying of financial disincentives on broadcasters or cable TV and DTH companies who delay in submitting the requisite information within the stipulated time.

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